Uncocking a Crossbow

Never use a cocking device to uncock the crossbow unless it is specifically recommended to do so by the manufacturer.

The recommended method of uncocking a crossbow is to shoot an arrow from the cocked crossbow into a safe backstop.

If hunting from an elevated stand or tree stand, remove the arrow from the crossbow, and leaving the safety in the “on” position, lower the crossbow from your stand. When safely back on ground level, shoot a practice arrow into a safe backstop such as a dirt bank or other suitable target.

Never leave a crossbow cocked over an extended period of time. Check the owner’s manual that came with your crossbow for recommended lengths of time and methods for uncocking.

Remember…

Never “dry fire” a crossbow, which is shooting the crossbow without an arrow mounted in the correct shooting position. Dry-firing can damage the crossbow and possibly injure you or a bystander.